The novel brought to the screen by screenwriter Aaron Stockard, who co-adapted Dennis Lehane's "Gone Baby Gone" with Affleck, who directed. It's unclear if Affleck intends to direct or appear in "The Blade Itself," or merely produce.

Set in Chicago, "The Blade Itself" focuses on two friends who went different directions after a childhood spent committing petty crimes. As adults, they're reunited, which produces awkwardness.

Most recently seen in "Smokin' Aces" and "Hollywoodland," Affleck has upcoming roles in "He's Just Not That Into You" and "State of Play."